Cost of Labor to Replace Alternator: What You Need to Know

Cost of Labor to Replace Alternator - If your car's alternator is failing, replacing it is essential. The alternator powers your car's electrical system and recharges the battery. If it breaks down, you're likely to find yourself stranded. But how much does it really cost to replace an alternator? Let's break it down, especially focusing on the cost of labour to replace alternator and other related expenses.

How Much Would it Cost To Replace an Alternator?

Replacing an alternator will incur some costs depending on your mechanic's location as well as your vehicle's make and model. If we consider the general average, it can be estimated to fall within $100 to $200, but we should note that the price may go up for high-end models. Other factors that may help with determining the Cost for replacement include:

Factors That Help Determine The Price For Replacement Include Such As:

The Difficulty Of The Task: If we take into consideration vehicles such as the Subaru or the Ford Explorer, the price for replacing an alternator would be high due to the fact that those vehicles have their alternators located in strange areas.

The Area In Which You Reside: How much you would have to pay for the replacement also greatly depends on your location, as the servicing rates in a city would be substantially higher than in rural areas.

How Much Should I Charge to Replace an Alternator?

If you're a mechanic or DIY enthusiast, you might wonder how much to charge to replace an alternator. A fair rate would factor in both parts and labour. For professional shops, the total Cost often ranges from $300 to $700, including parts and labour.

Cost to Replace Alternator and Battery

In many cases, when your alternator fails, your battery might also need replacing. A faulty alternator can shorten the battery's life. Replacing both at once ensures your car's electrical system works smoothly. Here's an estimate of combined costs:

• Alternator Replacement: $400 to $700.
• Battery Replacement: $50 to $200.
• Total Cost: $450 to $900.

Keep in mind that these are average figures. If you own a high-end vehicle, the costs can climb higher.

Cost Of Replacing Subaru Alternator

While Subarus perform well, the alternators can be difficult to replace because of the engine configuration. For example, the Cost for a Subaru alternator replacement ranges between approximately $500 and $800, with the labour cost ranging between about $150 and $250 included in the total replacement cost.

Cost Of Replacing Ford Alternator

Ford vehicles such as Explorer and Mustang are relatively cheap to repair. For instance, the Ford Explorer alternator replacement cost is generally within the range of $4,000 to $800, while the Mustang alternator replacement cost is also around that figure.

How Much Labor to Replace Alternator?

The time required for alternator replacement depends on the car's design. On average, a mechanic might take 1 to 3 hours to complete the Job. Simple designs with accessible alternators might take less than an hour. In contrast, cars with tightly packed engine bays can take up to 3 hours or more. Labour is often calculated by the hour, with rates ranging from $80 to $150 per hour, depending on the shop and region.

Labour Cost to Change Alternator vs DIY

While professional labour costs can add up, replacing an alternator yourself could save money. If you're handy with tools, the DIY route might only cost you the price of the alternator. However, if you lack experience, it's better to leave it to a professional to avoid damaging your car.

How Much Does It Cost to Rebuild an Alternator?

Instead of buying a brand-new alternator, rebuilding it can be a cost-effective option. Rebuilding involves replacing worn-out parts, such as brushes or bearings, and restoring the alternator to working condition.

• Cost of Rebuilding: $100 to $300.
• Labour Costs: Additional $50 to $150 if done by a shop.

This option is best for those on a tight budget or for cars with hard-to-find parts.

Alternator Wire Replacement Cost

Sometimes, the issue isn't the alternator itself but the wiring. Faulty wires can disrupt the charging system. Replacing alternator wires typically costs between $50 and $200, depending on the complexity of the wiring.

How Much Do Car Alternators Cost?

The price of a new alternator varies widely depending on the car's make and model and whether the part is new, refurbished, or aftermarket.

• New Alternators: $150 to $400.
• Refurbished Alternators: $100 to $300.
• Aftermarket Alternators: $80 to $250.

High-performance or luxury vehicles often require more expensive parts.

Ways to Reduce the Cost of Replacing an Alternator

1. Look for the Best Offer: Try to find a mechanic who can do the work for less by getting estimates from several people.
2. Purchase Aftermarket Components: These are usually cheaper than the OEM parts, but they are just as effective.
3. Do It on Your Own: If you have skills, try doing it yourself AT THE SAME TIME; it will spare you labour costs.
4. Regular Maintenance: If you maintain the electrical system of your vehicle properly, then the life of the alternator will increase.

Conclusion

For vehicle owners, changing an alternator is normal wear and tear and should be seen as part of owning and servicing the car. Knowing the labour cost to replace the alternator or even getting the most Subaru alternator replacement cost will help you get better prepared with expenses, make better decisions, and allocate resources more effectively. Whether it is a labour cost to change the alternator in a Ford Explorer or any other you are getting, it is important to make sure that you shop around smartly and do your best to maintain the condition of the vehicle.